Parramatta Pride Picnic returns for its 16th year, bringing together the LGBTI+ community and their allies for a day of fun, food and, according to the weather app, sunshine.
This year’s picnic promises to be bigger and better, with a new-old home in the scenic Parramatta Park, offering a more accessible and inclusive space for everyone to enjoy. As the largest Pride event in Western Sydney, Parramatta Pride Picnic is a standout in the cultural calendar.
It’s a community-driven event, proudly organised in collaboration with Parramatta Queer Forum, part of ACON’s Inclusive Communities Networks, Inclusiv Events, Parramatta City Council, and supported by Woolworths as the principal partner.
“We knew we needed to do something in Western Sydney to show solidarity for queers that live out there,” Gavin Prendergast, ACON’s Manager of Regional Outreach, who helps coordinate the picnic explained to qnews.
“This year’s event is a big step up for us because the origins of the Pride Picnic started at Parramatta Park,” Gavin said.
This inclusive, free event invites everyone to be part of the celebration. The expansive park setting provides more space for the picnic’s signature string of market stalls, featuring community and corporate partners who champion inclusivity and diversity.
The food selection will be top-notch, with stalls offering everything from local street food favourites to international cuisine, plus a licensed bar serving beers, wines, and cocktails. Whether you’re there for the food or just soaking up the atmosphere, you’ll find something to savour.
Indigenous queen, El The Beauty Of The West, and more
Parramatta Pride Picnic has always been about bringing people together through culture, art, and performance, and the entertainment is as diverse as the community it serves. DJs will keep the energy up, while Drag Kings and Queens, including Parramatta local indigenous queen El The Beauty Of The West.
The lineup also includes The Solidarity Choir, Tanzanian Australian artist Malaika who is returning to the picnic with a live acoustic set, and Ensemble Dandana who brings together an eclectic mix of music from Western Asia and North Africa.
The event is family-friendly, with activities planned for kids and even a few surprises for your four-legged friends. Whether you’re coming with your family or your dog, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
One of the highlights of last year’s event was the T-dance style after-party at Club Parramatta, and it’s making a comeback for 2024. This free after-party is the perfect way to keep the Pride spirit alive well into the evening. It’s a space where people can continue dancing, connecting, and celebrating in a safe and welcoming environment.
Parramatta Pride Picnic
When: October 19, 11.00am – 5.00pm
Where: Parramatta Park – The Bowling Green, Cnr of Pitt Street and Macquarie St, Parramatta
Add to: Google Calendar, iCal
